Seemor
GrasingsB+Worth Trying
NW Corner of Mission and, 6th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
· New American restaurant, Fine dining restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (834 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative New American in downtown Carmel delivering strong flavors and a polished vibe, but expect high prices and occasional service slowdowns.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Grasings delivers reliable fine dining with strong food quality highlighted by creative New American dishes and premium seafood, but inconsistent execution on doneness and occasional prep lapses prevent higher marks. Charming downtown Carmel location and warm service create an appealing special-occasion destination, though slow pacing between courses and premium pricing temper the overall experience for some guests.
Restaurant Summary
Set in Carmel’s quaint center, Grasings feels warm and polished without stuffiness. Reviews often mention attentive staff and celebratory touches, alongside notes about slow pacing between courses. One diner put it simply: "A beautiful spot for a relaxed, special night." In the kitchen, the style leans New American with creative twists: yuzu and unagi meet classic steaks and West Coast seafood. The crispy Spanish octopus, crab cakes, and sole meuniere get frequent love, though a few guests report inconsistent doneness or occasional grit in seafood pasta. Ideal for those who enjoy modern flavors and premium ingredients over strict tradition. Families do dine here. Some guests praise how accommodating the team was with babies and even dogs on the patio, while one review described discomfort being moved outdoors with a toddler. Kids who like simpler fare can share steak, fries, or buttered pasta-style dishes, but there is no clear kids menu, and the ambiance skews adult.
At a Glance
- Creative New American dishes with premium seafood and steaks
- Strong special-occasion vibe in a charming downtown setting
- Service pacing can be slow with gaps between courses
- Pricey for the area; value depends on dish selection
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- premium_seafood_and_steaks
- creative_fusion_accents
- dog_friendly_patio
- private_upstairs_room
What People Love
- Elegant yet relaxed atmosphere
- Thoughtful wine guidance
- Standout octopus, crab cakes, and sole
- Attentive touches for celebrations
Points of Concern
- Service pacing is often slow; expect long gaps between courses on busy nights
- Inconsistent execution reported on steaks and a few seafood dishes
- Premium pricing can feel high relative to occasional misses
- Review patterns show signs of mixed experiences; plan for a relaxed timeline
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$90-$130 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Tomales Bay Oysters or Octopus, then Sole Meuniere; finish with a fruit-based dessert if available.
- Seafood lovers: Ahi Crudo followed by Ora King Salmon keeps the menu’s coastal focus.
Perfect For
- Anniversary or engagement dinner
- Leisurely date night after gallery hopping
- Visitors seeking a polished Carmel meal
- Small private celebrations in an upstairs room
Location Insights
Area: Charming coastal village center with upscale boutiques and wine rooms; attracts visitors and special-occasion diners.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit tourist town with steady evening foot traffic.
Nearby: Steps from art galleries, hotels, and tasting rooms; short walk to Ocean Ave and beach access streets.
Downtown CarmelDowntown Carmel is a walkable, picturesque area filled with art galleries, unique shops, and a variety of restaurants ranging from casual cafes to upscale dining. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, attracting visitors seeking a blend of cultural experiences and culinary excellence.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–21:00
Tuesday12:00–21:00
Wednesday12:00–21:00
Thursday12:00–21:00
Friday12:00–21:00
Saturday10:30–21:00
Sunday10:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →